1733 speeding drivers collared in two months

ACT Policing caught 1733 drivers speeding throughout July and August as part of its joint campaign with the ACT Justice and Community Safety Directorate asking Canberrans to “Stop Pushing the Limits”.

Of the 1733 drivers caught speeding over the eight-week period, 1174 were issued with a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) and 559 drivers were issued with a formal Caution.

Whilst 756 of those drivers caught speeding were driving at between 15km/h and 30km/h over the speed limit, 38 were detected at more than 45km/h over the speed limit. Of high concern, 341 drivers were caught speeding in a school zone in which a 40km/h speed limit applies.

Sergeant Craig McPherson from Traffic Operations said the results were disappointing.

“Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to control the vehicle and lengthens stopping distances, increasing both the likelihood of crashing and the severity of the crash outcome,” Sergeant McPherson said.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility; drivers who speed are gambling with their lives and the lives of others.”

Motorists caught speeding face fines ranging from $203 and one demerit point, to more than $1,811 and six demerit points.

The two-month “Stop Pushing the Limits” campaign formed part of the ACT’s multi-agency road safety strategy, aiming to encourage attitudinal and behavioural change towards speeding.